Researcher / Scholar Residencies in Iceland

Gullkistan

Laugarvatn, Iceland

Gullkistan, Center for Creativity, is an artist residency located in Laugarvatn, Iceland, offering a peaceful and inspiring environment surrounded by mountains, lakes, and Icelandic nature. It provides accommodation in two buildings with single and double rooms, as well as shared studio spaces equipped with tools, materials, and Wi-Fi. The residency is open year-round and welcomes artists, scholars, and international student groups seeking solitude and creative focus. Residents can engage in mutual activities, and family accommodations can sometimes be arranged. Gullkistan encourages independent work but also hosts workshops, seminars, and open studios. The residency is easily accessible, located 120 km from Keflavik International Airport, 70 km from Reykjavík, and 40 km from Selfoss. Fees vary depending on accommodation type, and while Gullkistan does not offer direct financial support, artists are encouraged to seek funding from their home countries. With its breathtaking natural surroundings and strong creative community, Gullkistan is an ideal space for deep artistic exploration.

Klaustrid AiR

Skriðuklaustur, Iceland

Klaustrið AiR is an artist residency program at Skriðuklaustur in East Iceland, managed by the Gunnar Gunnarsson Institute, offering 3-6 week stays for Icelandic and international artists, writers, scholars, composers, musicians, dancers, and other creatives in a quiet apartment within the historic Writer’s House. The program prioritizes projects related to Gunnar Gunnarsson’s life and works or East Icelandic studies, providing housing without rental fees (only a modest confirmation fee) but no stipend, in a peaceful rural setting ideal for focused creative or academic work.